Parking Guide in Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City, Mexico, Mexico City, Travel & Transportation, Parking Guide

Parking Guide in Mexico City, Mexico

1. Centro Historico

Parking near Mexico City's bustling historic center can be difficult due to heavy tourist traffic. Look for secured underground parking lots that offer full day rates. Consider leaving your vehicle parked and exploring the area on foot or via public transportation.
  • Safety: Choose well-lit and secure parking locations.
  • Cost: Compare daily versus hourly rates for better deals.
  • Accessibility: Close proximity to major attractions is ideal.

2. Chapultepec Park

This vast urban park has several parking options, which can help alleviate the challenge of finding a spot on busy weekends. Lots near the museum areas are more likely to have spaces. Plan to arrive early for the best chance at parking.
  • Availability: Arrive early to secure a spot.
  • Location: Look for parking lots near the attraction you're visiting within the park.
  • Time Limits: Check for any time-related parking restrictions.

3. Palacio de Bellas Artes

Located in the heart of the city, parking here can be scarce. Use nearby garages and be prepared for higher rates due to the central location. Using online parking reservation platforms can save time.
  • Cost: Expect premium rates in central garage locations.
  • Booking: Consider pre-booking through apps or websites.
  • Traffic: Anticipate heavy traffic in and around the area.

4. Zócalo

Mexico City's main square is surrounded by government buildings, so street parking is limited. Underground parking is available but plan for potential security checks. Validate parking availability using real-time apps.
  • Security: Be prepared for bag checks in secured lots.
  • Real-time Updates: Apps can verify availability before arrival.
  • Central Access: Optimal for exploring the historic area.

5. Museo Soumaya

The museum's unique architecture attracts many visitors across Polanco, where parking might be challenging. Nearby shopping centers offer parking that is within walking distance. Avoid peak hours to increase parking success.
  • Proximity: Use nearby mall lots for convenience.
  • Timing: Avoid visiting during peak hours to secure parking.
  • Capability: Be aware of height and size restrictions in garages.

6. Coyoacán

This cultural neighborhood has limited street parking due to its narrow streets and popularity. Opt for paid parking lots slightly outside the district. A 5-10 minute walk is often worthwhile for easier parking.
  • Walking Distance: Anticipate walking a short distance.
  • Crowds: Weekends and holidays can lead to high demand.
  • Visibility: Ensure the lot is visible from major routes.

7. Arena México

Known for Lucha Libre shows, parking can fill quickly on event nights. Nearby lots tend to upcharge during events, so arrive early for better rates. Use public transportation as a backup plan.
  • Event Schedule: Verify parking availability on high-traffic event dates.
  • Rates: Be cautious of event-based price surges.
  • Alternatives: Investigate public transit options.

8. Mercado de la Merced

This busy market area has challenging parking due to congestion and small parking spaces. Private lots offer more security and space. Consider visiting during off-peak times.
  • Congestion: Expect high traffic in market zones.
  • Security: Opt for private lots with vigilant security.
  • Timing: Visit during off-peak hours for better parking access.

9. National Museum of Anthropology

The large parking area accommodates many visitors, though it becomes crowded on weekends. Street parking is less secure, so consider official lots. Arriving early can help secure a nearby space.
  • Capacity: Large lots provide higher chances of parking.
  • Security: Favor official over street parking for safety.
  • Early Arrival: Improve parking odds by coming early in the day.

10. Estadio Azteca

When attending a football match, parking lots fill up fast and prices can be steep. It's easiest to park further and use free shuttle services to the stadium. Plan for extra travel time during major events.
  • Overflow: Use overflow parking options with shuttle services.
  • Price: Pay attention to event premiums on parking fees.
  • Timing: Allocate extra travel time on match days.

11. Reforma Avenue

This bustling financial district has several paid parking garages. Parking can be costly but offers proximity to iconic landmarks like Angel de la Independencia. Plan your visit with peak traffic times in mind.
  • Cost: Costs are higher due to the location's centrality.
  • Landmarks: Ideal for visiting multiple attractions nearby.
  • Traffic: Plan visits outside rush hour to minimize congestion.

12. Bosque de Tlalpan

This natural area is less crowded, offering ample parking for weekday visitors. Space becomes limited on weekends when families visit for recreation. Utilize maps to locate hidden lots.
  • Weekday Visits: Better parking availability on weekdays.
  • Family Crowds: Increased demand on weekends.
  • Maps: Use mapping services to find additional lots.

13. Plaza Garibaldi

Known for its Mariachi music, parking in this lively area can be scarce. Look for shared parking spaces or valet services offered by nearby restaurants. Street parking may be risky at night.
  • Evening Visibility: Consider well-lit areas, especially after dark.
  • Shared Spaces: Check restaurant deals for parking.
  • Valet Services: Take advantage of valet options where available.

14. University City (UNAM)

Parking within the university can be limited during peak class or event times. Visitor parking is generally available on campus but is often a longer walk from key buildings. Use campus maps for navigation.
  • Campus Navigation: Use maps to identify parking relative to destinations.
  • Event Overlap: Avoid class and event overlaps for easier parking.
  • Visitor Spaces: Visitor zones can be further from main areas.

15. Bazaar Saturday (Bazaar Sábado)

This famous art market offers parking lots around the San Jacinto Plaza but they fill quickly. Ride-sharing is often simpler when visiting this vibrant market. Plan to arrive early to secure closer lots.
  • Art Market: Expect more difficulty during market hours.
  • Alternative Transport: Ride-sharing can save time and frustration.
  • Arrival Timing: Early visits help secure nearby parking.

16. Santa Fe Shopping Center

Mexico City's business district is known for upscale shopping, with abundant but often pricey parking options. Weekend shoppers tend to fill spaces quickly. Explore upper levels of parking buildings for emptier spots.
  • Premium Prices: Higher parking fees reflect the area's status.
  • Shopper Traffic: Busy on weekends and holidays.
  • Parking Levels: Top levels may have vacancies when others don’t.

17. La Condesa

Popular for its cafes and nightlife, street parking can be hit or miss. Park in monitored garages or lots, especially in the evening. Take note of local signage to avoid fines.
  • Monitoring: Choose lots with constant surveillance.
  • Nightlife Timing: Be prepared for limited parking at night.
  • Signage: Read signs carefully to prevent violations.

18. Roma Norte

Known for its trendy eateries and galleries, parking is at a premium. Visitor-friendly garages offer daily parking fees and are generally more available than street parking. Consider reservations where possible.
  • Trendy Area: Increased traffic from visitors.
  • Reservation Options: Pre-booking may ensure a space.
  • Street vs. Garage: Garages offer peace of mind over street spaces.

19. Benito Juárez International Airport

Parking here caters to a constant influx of travelers, offering short-term and long-term options. Higher prices reflect convenience and proximity to terminals. Consider shuttle services from more distant lots.
  • Duration-Based: Select parking based on trip length.
  • Proximity Costs: Diverse pricing based on distance to terminal.
  • Shuttle Accessibility: Utilize shuttle for better pricing options.

20. Xochimilco

Full-day trips here imply parking needs that are away from the crowded docks. Opt for local lot services that include day security. Confirm operating hours to match your planned visit duration.
  • Full-Day Options: Plan for a day-long parking space.
  • Dock Crowds: Anticipate busy areas when selecting parking.
  • Operating Hours: Align parking duration with attraction hours.